State Democrats target Fox Valley with new staff

Jan. 17, 2013

Mike Tate, state Democratic chair, said a new 'ground game' with regional political directors will roll out in February. One of those directors will focus solely on the Fox Valley. / Gannett Wisconsin Media photo

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Post-Crescent staff writer

APPLETON — The state Democratic Party wants to get an early jump on the 2014 elections and will target areas outside major metropolitan Wisconsin cities including the Fox Valley.

Mike Tate, state Democratic chair, said a new “ground game” with regional political directors will roll out in February. One of those directors will focus solely on the Fox Valley.

“It’s the second-largest media market in the state, and it’s an incredibly swing area,” Tate said. “If we have a Democratic candidate for governor that performs as well as Tammy Baldwin in that area, we’re going to win this election.”

The Democratic Party announced a new “72-County Strategy” campaign backed by a $500,000 investment.

The first staff members will start in Eau Claire, the Fox Valley and La Crosse.

“The time really gives us an opportunity before all the TV and direct mail to go out and have a conversation about values and priorities,” Tate said. “We think starting early having a conversation is one of main keys to overcoming some of the key loses in these areas.”